Doing a lip piercing is a widespread custom in many parts of the world and is a very popular way to express your personality and individuality. Although you like the look on your face, you may find yourself in need of taking it off; you may feel intimidated and frightened at the idea, but with the right hygiene precautions and a gentle touch, it can be a very simple and painless procedure. Just remember to wait at least two weeks after you pierced your lip to avoid irritating it.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Preparing to Remove the Ring
Step 1. Disinfect your mouth using an antiseptic mouthwash
By doing this, you get rid of any bacteria and disinfect the hole on the inside of the lip. Pour half a capful of product and move it in the mouth for about 30 seconds; when finished, spit the mouthwash into the sink.
Step 2. Sanitize your hands
Wash them with antibacterial soap to get rid of the impurities found on the palms and fingers. After having completely lathered them, rinse them with clean water; then apply soap and water to your fingertips and use them to scrub the skin surrounding the piercing. Rinse your lips with water and dry your hands and face with absorbent paper.
After washing your hands, apply a saline solution (15g of salt dissolved in 250ml of water) to the piercing before touching it. Most body artists recommend using a cotton swab to remove encrusted residue
Part 2 of 2: Remove the Ring
Step 1. Keep the jewel still
I bite the back with the incisors to lock it in place; you don't have to apply too much pressure, just enough to keep the ring from moving as you go.
Step 2. Turn the end
Use your thumb and index finger to rotate the ball on the outside of the piercing. Turn it to the left by loosening it until you can detach it completely; once successful, you can release your grip with your teeth.
- Hook jewelry typically has a ball that is compressed between the two ends of the piercing; they are usually more difficult to remove, so it's best to go to your local piercer for help.
- Some models have the ends wedged into each other (rather than a ball) and can be opened simply by pulling the metal in opposite directions. To take off this type of lip jewelry, you may need the help of a professional.
Step 3. Remove the ring
Extract it from the inside of the lips; grab the back with thumb and forefinger and slide it into the hole until it is removed; never rotate it while it is still in the skin.
Step 4. Clean the piercing area
Disinfect your mouth once again by rinsing it with mouthwash; be sure to wash the jewelry thoroughly with antibacterial soap and water.
Once the piercing has been cleaned and dried with an absorbent cloth, place it in a small plastic bag; in this way, you protect it and keep it clean from external contaminants
Advice
- If it seems stuck, use vitamin E or olive oil to lubricate the jewelry, but avoid petroleum jelly as it easily becomes contaminated with bacteria and can trigger an infection.
- If the area is swollen, apply an ice cube or take ibuprofen.
- Wait until the hole has completely healed before removing the piercing; the healing process can last up to 10 weeks, if not longer.
Warnings
- Don't rush when you pull out the piercing.
- Never tear it off.
- Always clean the hole and the jewel after removing it.
